Home" What is an Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766)?

What is an Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766)?

May 9, 2021

An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is an identification card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues to particular certifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Lots of people refer to the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is called Form I-766.

The EAD card consists of a photograph of the individual authorized to work and might consist of the individual's finger print. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD usually has open-market work authorization, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 file for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, a Work Authorization Card is only legitimate till it's expiration date. Depending on the person's immigration status, USCIS typically issues cards for a two-year duration or less. However, certain EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories might be instantly extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are essentially two various types of nonimmigrants who might be eligible to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to work in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are currently authorized to work, they might need proof of that opportunity. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to ask for special consent to accept employment. Examples include adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum seekers, and specific students.

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Permanent homeowners (green card holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is proof of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be employed with a specific company do not require an EAD. Examples of nonimmigrants with this status include H-1B and TN visa.

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How to Request an EAD

Foreign nationals who are eligible for a Work Authorization Document may ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the preliminary ask for work permission need to be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate must consist of the following products for a preliminary request:

- Form I-765

USCIS fees

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style pictures

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. In other words, applicants must submit other particular supporting files depending upon the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular preliminary I-765 demands get sent with the primary application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger costly delays or a rejection.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also receive tailored filing directions. The filing directions will be based upon your specific circumstance and will describe precisely what files to send out with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You might renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work authorization. File a new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you must not submit for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD expires.

Replacement

You may change your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, taken or destroyed. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" alternative. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can send an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.